One Year of the State Government: State-Level Women’s Conference

A Strong Position of Women is a Symbol of a Prosperous and Strong Society
State Government’s First Year Dedicated to Respect, Safety, and Welfare of Women: Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma
Recognition of One Lakh ‘Lakhpati Didis’ and Selection of Namo Drone Didis Across 216 Identified Clusters
Launch of the Chief Minister Amrit Aahar Yojana, Raj Sakhi Portal, and Other Schemes

Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma emphasized that a strong and respectful position for women is the hallmark of a prosperous and progressive society and nation. He highlighted that the first year of his government has been dedicated to the respect, safety, and welfare of women. Addressing the state-level women’s conference in Udaipur, organized to mark the completion of one year of the state government, the Chief Minister expressed his gratitude for the significant contribution of women to the government’s success. He referred to ancient scriptures that proclaim, “Yatra Naryastu Pujyante Ramante Tatra Devata” (Where women are revered, gods reside), and echoed Swami Vivekananda’s sentiment that the world cannot progress without improving the condition of women.

The Chief Minister stressed that both men and women play vital roles in creating a progressive society. Recognizing the importance of women as the first teachers of their children, he acknowledged their crucial role in instilling values and nurturing cultural and moral growth.

Initiatives for Women’s Welfare Over the Past Year

Fulfilling promises made in the government’s manifesto, CM Sharma underlined significant efforts in addressing crimes against women and promoting their welfare. To curb harassment in public places and ensure a safe environment, 500 “Kalika Patrolling Units” have been announced, with 250 units already sanctioned, employing 1,000 constables. Additionally, the government launched a safety app, a security command center, and a panic button project with RSRTC to provide 24-hour emergency assistance to women.

Empowering Girls Through Education and Financial Support

CM Sharma highlighted efforts to empower girls from an early age through education and financial security. The Lado Incentive Scheme was introduced to provide ₹1 lakh savings bonds to girls from underprivileged families at birth. The scheme has already disbursed the first installment of ₹2,500 to one lakh beneficiaries. He also mentioned providing subsidized LPG cylinders for ₹450 starting January 2024, with subsidies directly transferred to eligible families.

Enhanced Benefits Under PM Matru Vandana Yojana

The state government increased benefits under the Prime Minister Matru Vandana Yojana from ₹5,000 to ₹6,500. An additional ₹1,500 was transferred to 70,000 women today. Anganwadi workers’ monthly honorarium has also been raised by 10%. To address malnutrition, the government launched the Chief Minister Amrit Aahar Yojana, distributing milk to children at Anganwadi centers. Furthermore, 1,000 new Anganwadi centers have been approved, with a plan to establish model centers in every block.

Recognition of Women’s Contribution and Economic Empowerment

The conference celebrated one lakh newly recognized “Lakhpati Didis” and 216 “Namo Drone Didis” for their achievements. The government distributed electric cooking systems to 10,000 women and allocated ₹15,000 revolving funds to 10,000 self-help groups. Women-led SHGs have also been granted loans worth ₹100 crores through the Mahila Nidhi Bank. The launch of the Raj Sakhi Portal aims to further support 45 lakh SHGs across the state.

CM Sharma assured that the state government’s initiatives have laid the foundation for women’s empowerment and self-reliance, adding that this is just the beginning of creating opportunities for women to realize their dreams.

Speeches from Leaders

Deputy CM and Minister of Women and Child Development, Diya Kumari, emphasized the impact of women on society and applauded the central and state governments for launching welfare schemes focused on women, including the Lado Incentive Scheme and initiatives recognizing “Lakhpati Didis” and “Namo Drone Didis.”

Revenue Minister Hemant Meena highlighted women’s critical role in the state’s development, noting progress in sectors such as water, energy, and infrastructure. Minister of State for Women and Child Development, Dr. Manju Baghmar, praised the CM’s leadership for ensuring women’s safety and dignity.

Interaction with Beneficiaries

The Chief Minister virtually interacted with beneficiaries from across the state. Rama Devi from Pratapgarh shared how free rations under the National Food Security Scheme have supported her family. Entrepreneur Monica from Sri Ganganagar expressed gratitude for receiving a ₹25 lakh loan and ₹7 lakh subsidy under the Entrepreneur Promotion Scheme, which enabled her to become self-reliant.

Additional Highlights

Earlier, the Chief Minister distributed bicycles under the Free Bicycle Distribution Scheme for girls in Class 9 and launched various welfare programs. These included distributing checks under the Sukhda Dampatya Jeevan Yojana, assistive devices for differently-abled individuals, and scooters under multiple student incentive schemes. He also inaugurated department stalls showcasing government initiatives.

The event witnessed the presence of Tribal Area Development Minister Babulal Kharadi, several MLAs, senior officials, and a large number of women attendees.